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ADHD in Women and Girls

ADHD is often misdiagnosed in women and girls because the symptoms are not as obvious. They can also be mistaken for other disorders and this could delay the referral.

It is crucial to understand and treat the symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders among females suffering from ADHD. The transitional phases of adolescence or pregnancy can also reveal and worsen ADHD add in women test some women.

1. Get a diagnosis

ADHD can be hard to identify in adulthood, particularly for women. The symptoms differ for women. For instance, while men tend to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, most women have difficulty in concentrating or staying still. As a result, they can be misdiagnosed with other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.

ADHD is often observed in males and females, so doctors might not be familiar with the condition. This could lead to delays in diagnosis as females aren't often referred to as frequently. Girls may also conceal their symptoms better than men and are less likely to be noticed by teachers or parents. They may resort to coping strategies, such as hiding behind makeup or acting out to disguise their behaviour and feelings.

The symptoms of ADHD can become more severe when women go through perimenopause or menopausal. It is because hormonal fluctuations can make them more susceptible to mood swings. They might also find it harder to keep track of things and stick to routines. This can impact how they manage their work, home and other responsibilities.

Assessments that are delayed for a long time can cause stress and frustration for those who are unable to get the help they require. This is particularly applicable to those on the NHS as there are only a handful of doctors who are able to conduct ADHD assessments. It can take a long time to get an appointment.

The first step to get the diagnosis is to visit your GP. It is essential to inform your GP that you believe you might be suffering from ADHD because they will need to take it seriously and ask for an appointment. It is also important to explain the reasons you believe you may have ADHD. You can download an official letter from ADHD UK and give it to your GP to speed up the process. You may also obtain an evaluation through private healthcare.

2. Talk to your doctor

Women with ADHD can be harder to identify than men, partly because the signs aren't as obvious, especially as an adult adhd in women. These strategies can be harmful, since they can try to conceal their issues. This includes drinking heavily, smoking cannabis, and trying to build social support through high risk activities (e.g. gangs, promiscuity and criminal activities). Girls with ADHD are also more likely to experience more sexually transmitted diseases, teens, unplanned and early-stage pregnancy.

The GP will take any reports of ADHD seriously, and should inquire about your symptoms. They will then refer you to a service that is best suited to you. It is typically a Community Mental Health Service or a Neurodevelopmental Service.

The waiting times for these services are lengthy and in some cases it can be difficult to be referred because of the lack of seriousness which the problem is dealt with. This could be due to the fact that the GP is unaware of the existence of adult ADHD or believes that the individual's difficulties are caused by other factors (such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse) rather than ADHD symptoms.

After you've been referred to a therapist to a therapist, you must select a therapist who is knowledgeable about the condition, and is willing to work with your ADHD difficulties. Some therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) which is particularly beneficial for people with Adhd assessment for women.

Controlling ADHD symptoms requires a long-term commitment. The use of medication can reduce some of your symptoms, and diet changes can make a difference too. For instance, a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can make the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity less apparent. On the other side, a diet that is high in junk food and sugar can worsen the symptoms.

You should also ask your GP if mindfulness-based techniques such as meditation might be helpful for you. They can be very useful in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. These techniques can be taught by a qualified instructor. You can find one near you by using the NHS service locator.

3. Find a support group

Women who suffer from ADHD typically have less visible symptoms than men. This is probably due to the fact that females don't display as many hyperactive or impulsive symptoms. This can make it difficult for them to be diagnosed. But, that's not to say that they aren't suffering from any symptoms. They could have ADHD symptoms that are harder to spot, like inattention ADHD. They may also have trouble managing their emotions and relationships. This can lead to strained relationships, particularly with males.

Women with inattention ADHD are more likely to struggle with school and work. They may have difficulty following directions, meeting deadlines, and keeping the track of commitments. They might also be unable to accept constructive criticism or constructive feedback. These issues can lead to burnout which can have a negative impact on their performance at work and their career.

Some of the most prevalent signs and symptoms of adult adhd in men and women among women include difficulties paying attention, easily forgetting things, and poor organisation. They can also be prone to self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. In addition, they may struggle with their emotions and are often not understood by others. For example, mood changes could be interpreted as a sudden rage or anger.

Despite these challenges there are a lot of resources available to adults suffering from ADHD. One of the most effective options is a support program that is designed specifically for adults with ADHD. These groups are offered both online as well as in person. These groups are an excellent way to get advice about the diagnosis options for both children and adults and also how to manage your illness.

There are a variety of adult ADHD support groups throughout the UK. The Bristol Collective, for example meets every Wednesday at The Hideout St Judes. They provide a safe environment for adults with ADHD who want to share their struggles, goals and achievements. The meeting details on their website and their Facebook page. You can also contact them with any questions or if you'd like the opportunity to attend a future event.

4. Exercise

Women suffering from ADHD may face challenges in managing their symptoms, including menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. These hormonal changes can cause or exacerbate emotional issues such as mood swings, and irritability.

Exercise can ease these symptoms, producing feel-good hormones and reducing the stress. It also helps reduce excess energy and increase focus and improve attention. Therefore, try to incorporate a regular exercise routine into your day.

Try exercising at home, or if you prefer a social setting you can join a class or gym. Just remember, that while exercising can help alleviate certain symptoms of ADHD however, it will not fix them completely on its own. It must be combined with other strategies to manage symptoms. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to get 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.